Editorial
Dear colleagues and nanoenthusiasts,
For our network, the first months of 2026 have been dominated by good news and a series of exciting events. …
Exploring alternatives to cancer diagnostics: Master’s prize for Raphael Pauli
This year, the prize for the best master’s thesis goes to Raphael Pauli. In his project at BÜHLMANN Laboratories, Raphael investigated synthetic proteins that could one day play a role in colorectal cancer diagnostics.
In Memoriam: Andreas Engel
We mourn the loss of Prof. em. Andreas Engel, who passed away on April 1, 2026, at the age of 82.
Nano-Argovia program: Understanding antifouling systems and calcium carbonate microstructures
In the Nano-Argovia project µAlmond, researchers are exploring fundamental questions regarding the formation of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) crystals in water systems. As part of this work, they are studying the mechanism of action of an electric antifouling system and analyzing the significance of various crystal shapes for water quality and health.
Nano-Argovia program: On the trail of liver disease with AFM
In the Nano-Argovia project NanoDiLi, an interdisciplinary team is developing an innovative platform based on atomic force microscopy in order to carry out nanomechanical analyses of three-dimensional liver microtissues. The researchers hope to use this platform to study the development of chronic liver diseases and to test known active substances for the treatment of scarring and fatty liver disease in the lab.
Nano-Argovia program: Preventing clumping
With the Nano-Argovia project NanoBioNest, researchers want to gain a better understanding of the conditions in which biological active substances such as antibodies, therapeutic proteins, RNA or DNA can cluster into aggregates. The interdisciplinary team plans to develop a model for explaining and predicting aggregate formation and the effect of adjuvants.
Nano-Argovia program: New method for producing X-ray diffraction gratings
In the Nano-Argovia project X-BASE, researchers plan to develop a new, scalable and efficient method for the production of X-ray diffraction gratings. This is with a view to meeting global demand for precision optical components used in cutting-edge research.
Nano-Argovia program: Clock generator for digital systems
In the Nano-Argovia project NANO-SAW, researchers are developing a tiny, high-precision oscillator based on nanoscale surface waves. This is intended to serve as a frequency reference for digital high-speed systems.
The future of viticulture in focus: Final meeting of WiVitis and KliWiReSSE
Climate change poses fundamental questions for viticulture in the region — but can simultaneously be a driver of innovation and lasting changes. At the recent closing meeting of the trinational Interreg projects WiVitis and KliWiReSSE, held at the University of Basel, experts from the participating institutions met to present the results of the projects and discuss opportunities for sustainable, economically successful viticulture in the Upper Rhine region. The Nano Imaging Lab of the Swiss Nanoscience Institute (SNI) was actively involved in the WiVitis project and played host to this fascinating and informative event.
Guest article by Timon Flathmann: n³: Nano – Now & Next — Tips on studying and careers
After we took over as the board of the AlumniNano organization in October 2025, our aim was to embark on a process of “generational change.” Accordingly, we had many ideas for exciting new events and projects.
SNI PhD School: Successfully defended
Three doctoral students from the SNI PhD School have successfully defended their theses over the past six months. They conducted their research at the Departments of Physics and Chemistry at the University of Basel and at the Paul Scherrer Institute.
Launch of the National Centre of Competence in Research “Precision”
On May 1, the new National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) “Precision” was launched, with numerous SNI members involved. The common goal of the researchers from seven participating Swiss research institutions is to raise the accuracy and sensitivity of measurements to unprecedented levels and thereby exploring unknown physical phenomena beyond the Standard Model of particle physics.
Tool of the Month: DriveAFM
With a new video series, we would like to showcase the outstanding equipment and tools available within the SNI network. This equipment – from custom-built machines to state-of-the-art microscopes and innovative instruments – is what makes micro- and nanoscale research possible in the first place.
Who is who? A management team with diverse expertise
We strive to provide as much information as possible about applied and basic research projects in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology. In addition to the numerous researchers who generate these results, the SNI network also includes staff members who ensure that processes related to finance, human resources, administration, coordination of the study program and the doctoral school, communication, public relations, and services run smoothly.